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Best Time to Visit Germany

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Neuschwanstein castle surrounded by trees with autumn colors and snowcapped mountain

Neuschwanstein Castle

From pristine wineries to quiet lakes, lively beer halls to enticing chocolates, discover the different faces of Germany with the following guide on the best time to visit this magical country.

Germany is filled with majesty, stemming from the beauty of the Alps to its quiet valleys surrounded by radiant vineyards. Germany feels both familiar and futuristic, with its towering castles and opulent cars, meandering trails and luxurious winter resorts.

The following guide will introduce you to the best Germany has to offer and the prime times to see its otherworldly destinations.

Overview
  1. Best Time for Sightseeing
  2. Best Time for Trekking and Hiking
  3. Best Time for Cycling
  4. Best Time for Wine Tasting
  5. Best Time for German Food Experiences
  6. Best Time for Families with Children
  7. Best Time for Couples or Honeymooners
  8. Best Time for Spring & Summer Activities
  9. Best Time for Fall & Winter Activities
  10. Book for the Best Time to Visit Germany

Best Time for Sightseeing

English Garden in Munich, Germany

English Garden in Munich, Germany

Best Months: April • May • June • September • October

The best time to visit Germany for sightseeing is in spring and fall, before and after the summer crowds.

April and June, as well as September and October, offer lower prices, smaller crowds, and the best weather for a well-rounded trip.

Munich is packed with visitors during the last week of September and the first week of October due to Oktoberfest, but the destination can also give you the unique experience of participating in one of Europe’s most distinctive celebrations.

Learn more: Best Places to Visit in Germany

Best Time for Trekking and Hiking

Two hikers on scenic trail in the northern Black Forest of Germany

Northern Black Forest, Germany

Best Months: May • June • July • September

The best time for trekking and hiking in Germany is from May to September, as the summer season offers the best weather and prime opportunities for taking advantage of its beautiful climate.

Whether looking to scale the tallest mountain for views across four countries or eager to wander the scenic trails around the Black Forest, a combined length of over 124 miles, trekking in Germany reveals the essential splendors of nature.

By visiting in summer, you can enjoy the beauty of Germany at your pace in the best weather possible.

Best Time for Cycling

Woman mountain biking in Allgäu with a lake and mountains in the background

Allgäu, Germany

Best Months: May • June • July • September

The best time to cycle in Germany is from May to September, when the country’s weather is at its best.

Take to the Baltic Coast Cycle Trail to find surprisingly white beaches, steep cliffs, and shallow bays, or follow the Rhine Cycle Trail to discover 40 historical castles and palaces that line its riverbanks.

With over 45,000 miles of bike paths across the country, visiting Germany in the summer for cycling will offer you endless possibilities.

Best Time for Wine Tasting

Gutenfels Castle and vineyards in the Rhine Valley

Gutenfels Castle and vineyards in the Rhine Valley

Best Months: April • May • June • July • August • September • October

Germany has a long history of fantastic wines that you can enjoy in the spring, summer, and fall, especially from April to October.

The nation hosts the largest wine festival in the world and you will get to discover the sumptuous diversity of Germany’s wines, sourced from 13 regions across the country.

The spring, summer, and fall will give you the best weather, while the colder months of April, May, September, and October see smaller crowds for a quieter and more intimate luxury tour.

Best Time for German Food Experiences

Traditional braised marinated German beef sauerbraten with spaetzle and lingonberry jam in a spicy brown sauce as a closeup in a rustic cast iron frying pan

Traditional braised marinated German beef sauerbraten with spaetzle and lingonberry jam

Best Months: April • May • June • September • October

Germany’s impressive culinary history can reveal exceptional flavor in spring and fall, especially from April to June and September to October.

With a cumulative 300 Michelin Stars across the country, you can explore its seasonal and hyper-local recipes, as well as traditional dishes passed down through generations of family cooks.

As a premier European food destination, discovering Germany in spring and fall will also give you more opportunities to indulge in its intensely flavorful dishes away from the summer crowds.

Best Time for Families with Children

Mother and daughter at Sigmaringen Castle, Germany

Sigmaringen Castle, Germany

Best Months: May • June • July • September • October

Germany is a great travel destination for families in summer and fall, especially when traveling from May to July and September to October.

The rich history, distinctive artwork, and connection to its renowned fairy tales turn Germany into an enticing destination for children of all ages.

Whether visiting the Black Forest, Munich, Berlin, or the Bavarian countryside, summer and fall have the best weather in which to enjoy the diversity of German culture, scenery, and history.

Learn more: Germany Family Vacations & Tours

Best Time for Couples or Honeymooners

Couple sitting under a magnolia tree in a city park during Spring in Frankfurt Germany

Frankfurt, Gerrmany

Best Months: May • June • July • September • October

Germany often surprises visitors as a romantic destination, but the passionate ambiance of peaceful villages and lush countryside escapes shine brightest in summer and fall.

From May to July and September to October, you can indulge in the great weather and smaller crowds across the country for an intimate escape into the charms of Germany’s culture and scenery.

Whether focused on food and wine or the beauty of the Alps, summer and fall can give you the perfect ambiance for your couple’s trip.

Best Time for Spring & Summer Activities

Kayaking the Spreewald in Lübbenau, Germany

Spreewald in Lübbenau, Germany

Best Months: April • May • June

Germany in spring and summer is a feast for the senses, especially when traveling between April and June.

The mountains turn lush, the hiking and cycling trails open, and the cities sing with color as life returns to the streets.

When visiting between April and June, you can enjoy the warmer weather and smaller crowds before the true rush of summer tourists, while still embracing active exploration with exceptional activities.

Activities: Wine tasting • Food tours • Hiking • Cycling • Kayaking  • White-water rafting

Best Time for Fall & Winter Activities

Christmas market in Frankfurt, Germany

Frankfurt, Germany

Best Months: October • November •  December

Fall and winter in Germany bring to light a different side of the country, especially from October to December, as the weather changes and the crowds diminish.

While the days may shorten and cool significantly, the lively ambiance in each region moves from the open air into the cafés, beer halls, and cultural centers.

With Christmas markets, snow on the Alps, and quaint discoveries sprinkled across the country, visiting Germany from October to December offers new and equally enticing adventures.

Activities: Skiing • Snowboarding • Beer tasting • Ice skating • Christmas markets

Book for the Best Time to Visit Germany

Baiersbronn village in the Black Forest, Germany

Baiersbronn, Germany

No matter the time of year, Germany offers bountiful delights across its magical countryside, breathtaking landscapes, and full-of-life cities. Whether sipping wine in the Rhine River Valley or exploring storybook villages near the Black Forest, you can find more information for your perfect trip in our Germany travel guide.

When you are ready to make your dream vacation a reality, start exploring our featured Germany tours and vacations.

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